Lifted 5.0: Double Step Question`

[rvnovice]

We have a "new to us" 2018 Escape 5.0 that is being lifted at our local RV shop. We are interested in switching from the stock single entry step to a double entry step. I did a search and read many forum posts related to Escape steps, but I was not able to locate the make and model of the double step option for the 5.0. Can someone share the make and model? I did email ETI, but I'm not sure how quickly they will respond.

For anyone with a 5.0 trailer who has done the single to double conversion, did the "step down" distance for the first step increase with the double step? Does the distance of the second step from the trailer exert too much force on the trailer frame or step mounts? These are both concerns raised by our local shop, and they are recommending keeping the existing single step and adding a separate external step stool. Ideally we would like an installed double step that decreases the step down distance of the current single step.

 

[Jeremy Kessenich]

I have the factory lift with the factory folding double step. I can't speak to did distances increase between steps as this is my first Escape camper. I can tell you that the first step (the lowest step) does feel squishy. I have had the experience where the passenger side of the camper had to be raised to be level because of the slope of the campsite and the lowest step was too high and I'd wished I had a 3rd step. A folding step is on my list to purchase. Escape has moved to a step that folds inside the camper rather than external like mine does. This would alleviate any concerns you have of can the frame support it.

 

[Darox]

Hi rvnovice, we purchased the Elkhart 920-7 double camper step, 20" wide tread on Amazon. It is what ETI recommended. The step has worked out very well for our 2020 5.0 TA. As Jeremy K noted, yes the lower step does feel a bit soft/spongy, but these steps are pretty solid in general. Only disappointment was the required drilling and grinding required to replace the single step, along with some black spray paint afterward. Would have been nice if it was a simple bolt off/on scenario. I'm able to do the job myself, but if you don't have the tools or aren't handy it may take an hour or two for a shop to do this for you. The double step does make it more comfortable going in and out of the trailer IMO. Good luck with your project.